Extreme Hot Weather

Summer heat can be dangerous, especially when temperatures are 10 or more degrees above the average high for that time of year and last several days. Older people, infants, people with chronic health conditions, and people working outdoors are at the highest risk when exposed to extreme heat. Staying cool and making simple changes in your fluid intake, activities and clothing during hot weather can help you remain safe and healthy.

Safety tips for everyone:

• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water and low-calorie sports drinks. Avoid caffeine and alcohol. (Consult with your doctor if you have been prescribed a fluid-restricted diet or diuretics).
• Stay indoors in an air-conditioned building. If you do not have an air conditioner, visit a friend or neighbor with air conditioning or go to a shopping center or public library for a few hours.
• Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothes.
• Pace yourself and avoid heavy exertion in the heat.
• If you must be out in the heat, limit your outdoor activity to morning and evening hours.
• Check in on neighbors, relatives and friends, particularly those who may be isolated.
• Never leave a child or an animal in a parked vehicle, even for a few minutes. Temperatures can quickly rise to dangerous levels in a matter of minutes.

For more information and additional tips to stay cool and healthy during extreme hot weather, visit www.co.el-dorado.ca.us/publichealth or www.cdc.gov.

Extreme Cold Weather:

Exposures to cold temperatures, whether indoors or outside, can cause serious or life-threatening health problems. Whenever temperatures drop decidedly below normal and as wind speed increases, heat can leave your body more rapidly. These weather-related conditions may lead to serious health problems especially hypothermia and frostbite. Some things you can do to protect yourself and others from extreme cold are:

• Be prepared for isolation in your home - Check your disaster supply kit for food and water. Install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector.
• Travel only when absolutely necessary - Listen to road advisories. Make sure your car is winterized and have an emergency kit in the vehicle, which includes water, food, blankets, flashlight, sand or kitty litter, shovel, ice scraper, tow chain, and flares. Let someone know your route and destination. If you do get stuck, stay with your vehicle.
• Stay indoors and dress warmly - Eat regularly and drink liquids such as warm broths or juices. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Be aware of the dangers of carbon monoxide - Clear all vents of snow accumulation. Do not use unvented heating appliances inside the home.
• Natural gas and liquid petroleum gas (propane) installations are at risk due to heavy and deep snow conditions. Keep natural gas meters free of snow and ice build up. Heavy icicles or large accumulations of snow from eaves can severely damage regulators if they are not protected.
• Avoid exertion - cold weather puts an extra strain on the heart. If you must do outdoor chores, dress warmly and work slowly.